Greek Yarrow Achillea ageratifolia

Names

• Family

  Asteraceae

• Synonyms

  Greek Yarrow

• Common names

  Achillea ambigua, Achillea ambigua var. riphaea, Achillea ambigua var. tanaitica, Achillea auriculata, Achillea borealis, Achillea clavennae, Achillea clypeolata, Achillea decolorans, Achillea eradiata, Achillea eximia, Achillea falcata, Achillea gigantea, Achillea gracilis, Achillea grandiflora, Achillea haussknechtii, Achillea kelleri, Achillea macrophylla, Achillea micrantha, Achillea millefolioides, Achillea nana, Achillea nobilis var. lanata, Achillea nobilis var. tanaitica, Achillea ochroleuca, Achillea ochroleuca var. gigantea, Achillea pannonica, Achillea roseo-alba, Achillea santolina, Achillea sipylea, Achillea subalpina, Achillea submillefolium, Achillea tomentosa, Achillea umbellata, Achillea wilhelmsii, Ptarmica clusiana, Ptarmica decolorans, Santolina decolorans.

Toxicity

• To humans

  Achillea ageratifolia, commonly known as Greek Yarrow, is not typically known to be toxic to humans. Most members of the Achillea genus are not poisonous and some are actually used in traditional herbal remedies, though they may cause allergic reactions in some individuals, particularly those with sensitivity to plants in the Asteraceae family. However, it is important to note that individual reactions can vary greatly and it is generally advised to avoid ingesting any part of a plant unless it is well-known to be edible or if you have expert knowledge. If the plant is somehow poisonous and ingested, symptoms could theoretically include stomach upset, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, but specific toxicity symptoms of Greek Yarrow to humans are not widely documented.

• To pets

  Achillea ageratifolia, or Greek Yarrow, is not typically recognized as toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. Most species in the Achillea genus have no known severe toxicity to pets, although individual animals might have allergies or sensitivities to these plants. As a general precaution, pet owners should prevent pets from consuming plants that are not part of their normal diet since ingestion might lead to mild gastrointestinal upset, like vomiting or diarrhea, due to the plant's essential oils and other constituents. If an animal does consume Greek Yarrow and shows signs of distress, it is advisable to consult with a veterinarian. Always exercise caution and keep an eye on your pet for any adverse reactions after ingestion of any plant material.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Semi-evergreen

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Flower color

  White

• Height

  1 foot [30 cm]

• Spread

  1 foot [30 cm]

• Plant type

  Herb

• Hardiness zones

  5

• Native area

  Greece

General Benefits

• Attracts Pollinators: Achillea ageratifolia is known for attracting bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, which is vital for pollination and the health of the ecosystem.
• Drought Tolerant: This plant is resistant to periods of dryness once established, making it suitable for xeriscaping and low-water gardens.
• Low Maintenance: It requires minimal care once settled in the right soil and climate, making it ideal for gardeners seeking low-maintenance options.
• Aesthetic Appeal: With its silvery foliage and white flowers, Achillea ageratifolia adds beauty and contrast to gardens and landscapes.
• Ground Cover: Its mat-forming habit makes it an excellent choice for ground cover, reducing soil erosion and suppressing weeds.
• Edible Uses: Some parts of the plant are edible and can be used in salads or as garnishes, providing a mild, peppery flavor.
• Soil Improvement: Achillea ageratifolia can help improve soil quality by breaking up dense soil and adding organic matter as it decays.

Medical Properties

• Anti-inflammatory: Achillea ageratifolia may possess properties that help reduce inflammation.
• Antispasmodic: It may be used to relieve muscle spasms and cramps.
• Astringent: The plant can be used for its astringent properties, which can help in toning the skin and stopping bleeding.
• Carminative: Achillea ageratifolia might have properties that facilitate the release of gas from the stomach and intestines.
• Diaphoretic: The plant has been known to induce sweating and could be used to help reduce fevers.
• Hemostatic: It might be used to stop bleeding by promoting blood clotting.
• Vulnerary: Traditionally, it has been used to aid in the healing of wounds and cuts.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• Achillea ageratifolia, commonly known as Greek yarrow, can be used in companion planting to attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and hoverflies to the garden.
• The plant's foliage can be used to create a natural green dye for fabric and yarn, yielding various shades of yellow and green depending on the mordant used.
• Greek yarrow's dried flowers can be incorporated into potpourri mixes for a subtle fragrance and decorative appearance.
• The plant may serve as a lawn alternative in xeriscaping gardens due to its tolerance of drought and low maintenance requirements.
• Cut flowers of Greek yarrow can last for an extended period, making them a good choice for fresh bouquets and floral arrangements.
• The plant can be used in the design of rock gardens, adding texture and contrast to the landscape with its silver-green foliage.
• Greek yarrow can act as a natural soil stabilizer due to its mat-forming growth, helping prevent soil erosion on slopes and embankments.
• The plant's essential oils can be used in aromatherapy for their calming and soothing fragrance, though it's less known compared to other aromatic herbs.
• Greek yarrow can be planted in vegetable gardens to create a natural barrier against certain pests due to its strong scent.
• The flowers and leaves of the plant may be used in crafting, such as for making decorative wreaths or pressed flower art.

Feng Shui

The Greek Yarrow is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

The Greek Yarrow is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Strength in battle: Named after the Greek hero Achilles, Achillea ageratifolia, commonly known as the Greek Yarrow, symbolizes strength in battle and the ability to heal wounds, as it was said that Achilles used it to treat his soldiers.
• Protection: Yarrow has been historically used in various cultures for protection, and the Greek Yarrow carries this symbolic meaning as well, often employed in amulets or charms.
• Healing: With its medicinal properties, the Greek Yarrow is a symbol of healing, both physically and emotionally, signifying the plant's use in soothing ailments.
• Love divination: In some traditions, yarrow is believed to have powers of divination, particularly in matters of the heart, symbolizing the plant’s use in love spells and to foretell one's romantic future.
• Endurance: The plant's ability to thrive in challenging conditions makes the Greek Yarrow a symbol of endurance and resilience, reflecting the spirit of overcoming difficulties.